• (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Reprieve
reprieve, reprieving, reprieved 1. To delay the impending punishment or sentence of (a condemned person). 2. To relieve temporarily from any evil. 3. Respite from impending punishment, as from execution of a sentence of death. 4. Any respite or temporary relief. 5. Etymology: to delay the execution or punishment of person. In 1571, reprive, 'take ...